Application #10: Russ EnnisSECOND PLACE

There was a tie for Second Place. Here is the first of the two applications.

1. Why do you want to be a Warder?

I ache for the sense of purpose that being a Warder would give,
and also for the companionship of a fellow warrior against the Shadow.
As a Warder I would also have a better chance to make a difference in
the fight, and would be assured that my efforts were not misguided.

2. Why do you want to be my Warder?

Your question shows your modesty, for what man, in truth, does not?

(I've always wondered what it would be like to be bonded to a green
ajah, Power wielding Far Dareis Mai :)

3. Have you ever previously been a Warder?

I have served no other.

4. Do you own a sword?

I carry no sword, but am not untrained in the ways of combat, and
of war.

5. Do you own a color-shifting cape (NOTE: I will not supply this, you
must find one on your own!)?

No, but I would wrestle with Saidin or the Dark One himself to make one,
should that be your desire.

6. What is your favorite color?

The color the sky gets to be on a cloudless day over a lake in a
mountain valley, far from the troubles of modern life...

7. Do you believe that the person you are bonded to should be obeyed in
every and all ways?

In short, no. I believe that in situations where time is of the
essence, it is the Warder's duty to obey his Aes Sedai's orders quickly
and without question, but to question and even disobey her orders if
they put her at unnecessary risk. This is complemented by the Aes Sedai's
duty to keep her Warder informed of their situation, whatever the
circumstance, because not only would his knowledge of tactics likely be
far superior to hers, as it is one of his main areas of training, but
because the bond between two dedicated as partners in the fight to the
death against the Dark One is based not only on the One Power, but on
trust.

8. Write an essay on what being a Warder means to you. This essay must
be 1500 words or less.

Being a Warder is more than just protecting your Aes Sedai from
Trollocs and Myrdraal. Aes Sedai are feared, even loathed, because of
the knowledge and power that sets them above other men and women. Part
of being a Warder is being a companion, a friend or lover, to share the
loneliness and the burden of knowledge. I believe a Warder's role as
protector, while important, is secondary to this.